La Trobe campus cleared for 2300 new homes

Two parcels of land at La Trobe University's Bundoora campus are now unlocked for residential development after the state government removed historic title restrictions. The decision clears the path for approximately 2,300 new residences as part of the broader $5 billion university city masterplan in Melbourne's north-east. The broader campus project aims to deliver roughly 9,300 homes across multiple village zones over the next three decades while expanding educational facilities to accommodate more students.

Minister for Economic Development Anthony Carbines said the project forms part of the state Unlocking Strategic Sites program, which fast-tracks underused land to boost housing supply. At least 10 per cent of the new dwellings will be allocated as affordable housing options for the local community. Officials noted that the development will revitalize the area and bring much-needed residential inventory to the northern suburbs.

Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny said the initiative focuses on creating housing close to education hubs, public transport, and employment opportunities. La Trobe University will manage the upcoming development application process, which requires full planning assessments and community consultation before any construction work can begin on the site.

State officials estimate the long-term masterplan will support more than 20,000 jobs, generate around 3,000 construction jobs annually, and add $3.5 billion to the regional product over ten years. Up to $13.6 million captured from land sales will be redirected back into local infrastructure projects surrounding the campus to benefit residents.

University leaders have worked extensively on spatial design blueprints to transform the sprawling 255-hectare campus into a mixed-use urban precinct. The transformation intends to merge sustainable living spaces with research facilities, creating an integrated community environment for students, staff, and permanent residents alike.